Local Schools Near Winta Park, Okeechobee, 34974

Winta Park is a community in Okeechobee, FL, with the zip code 34974. I'll provide information on schools near this area, including public and private options, along with their ratings based on available data from sources like GreatSchools.org, Niche, and the Florida Department of Education. The ratings are typically based on test scores, student progress, college readiness, and other factors. Keep in mind that ratings can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend verifying the most current information directly with the schools or the Okeechobee County School District.

Since Winta Park is a smaller community within Okeechobee, I'll focus on schools in the broader Okeechobee area (zip code 34974 and nearby), as these are likely the most accessible for residents. Below is a list of schools, their approximate distance from central Okeechobee (since exact coordinates for Winta Park may vary), and their ratings or performance data as of the most recent publicly available information.

Public Schools in or near Okeechobee, FL 34974

Public schools in this area are managed by the Okeechobee County School District. Here are the primary schools serving the community:

1. South Elementary School

   • Address: 2468 SW 7th St, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Approximate Distance: 2-3 miles from central Okeechobee (likely closer to Winta Park depending on exact location)
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 5/10 (based on test scores and student progress as of recent data)
   • Performance Notes: South Elementary focuses on foundational education with an emphasis on reading and math proficiency. Test scores are near the state average in some areas, though performance can vary by subject. Check the Florida Department of Education for the latest school grade (typically A-F scale).
   • Contact: (863) 462-5087

2. Central Elementary School

   • Address: 610 SW 5th St, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 4/10
   • Performance Notes: This school serves a diverse student population and has programs for student support. Test scores are slightly below the state average in some metrics. Parent reviews highlight a supportive environment but note room for improvement in academic rigor.
   • Contact: (863) 462-5077

3. Osceola Middle School

   • Address: 825 SW 28th St, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Approximate Distance: 2-3 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 5/10
   • Performance Notes: Osceola Middle School offers a range of extracurricular activities alongside core academics. Math and reading proficiency rates are near or slightly below state averages. The school has received mixed reviews for student engagement and teacher quality.
   • Contact: (863) 462-5070

4. Okeechobee High School

   • Address: 2800 US-441 N, Okeechobee, FL 34972 (just outside 34974 but serves the area)
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Approximate Distance: 3-5 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 5/10
   • Performance Notes: This is the primary high school for the area, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career and technical education, and sports programs. Graduation rates are close to the state average (around 85-90% based on recent data), though test scores in math and reading lag slightly behind state benchmarks. College readiness metrics are moderate.
   • Contact: (863) 462-5025

5. Everglades Elementary School

   • Address: 3725 SE 18th Terrace, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Approximate Distance: 3-4 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 6/10
   • Performance Notes: One of the higher-rated elementary schools in the area, Everglades Elementary shows stronger test scores in reading compared to other local schools. It has a focus on community involvement and student support programs.
   • Contact: (863) 462-5108

   Private Schools in or near Okeechobee, FL 34974

   Private school options are limited in Okeechobee, but there are a couple of notable institutions:

6. Okeechobee Christian Academy

   • Address: 701 S Parrott Ave, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating: Not widely rated on platforms like GreatSchools due to smaller enrollment and private status, but parent reviews on Niche and other sites often praise the small class sizes and faith-based curriculum.
   • Performance Notes: This school offers a Christian-based education with a focus on individualized attention. Academic performance data is not publicly reported in the same way as public schools, but it’s known for a family-oriented environment. Tuition and enrollment details can be obtained directly from the school.
   • Contact: (863) 763-3072

7. Rock Solid Christian Academy

   • Address: 401 SW 4th St, Okeechobee, FL 34974
   • Grade Levels: K-12
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from central Okeechobee
   • Rating: Limited public ratings; generally positive feedback from local families for its personalized approach.
   • Performance Notes: Another faith-based option with a smaller student body. It emphasizes moral values alongside academics. Specific performance data is not widely available.
   • Contact: (863) 467-6991

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools.org ratings (on a 1-10 scale) are based on test scores, equity, and other factors, but they don’t capture everything (e.g., school culture or specific programs). The Florida Department of Education assigns letter grades (A-F) to public schools based on state assessments like the FSA (Florida Standards Assessments), which may provide a more localized perspective. As of my last update, many Okeechobee schools have received C or B grades in recent years, though this can fluctuate.
   • School Boundaries: Since Winta Park is a community within Okeechobee, school zoning depends on your exact address. You can confirm which public school your child is zoned for by contacting the Okeechobee County School District at (863) 462-5000 or using their online school locator tool.
   • Charter and Alternative Options: There are limited charter schools directly in Okeechobee, but some families explore options like virtual schooling through Florida Virtual School (FLVS) or nearby charter schools in adjacent counties if transportation is feasible.
   • Distance and Transportation: Distances provided are approximate from central Okeechobee. Winta Park’s specific location may alter these slightly. The school district offers bus transportation for public school students within designated zones; check eligibility with the district.

   How to Research Further

   • Okeechobee County School District Website: Visit www.okee.k12.fl.us for updated school grades, zoning maps, and enrollment information.
   • GreatSchools.org or Niche.com: These sites provide parent reviews and additional data on test scores and demographics.
   • School Visits: Schedule tours or attend open houses to get a firsthand look at facilities and meet staff.
   • Florida Department of Education: Check school report cards at www.fldoe.org for the most recent state-assigned grades and performance metrics.

   If you have a specific address in Winta Park or prefer details on a particular school, let me know, and I can refine the information further. Additionally, if you’re interested in preschools, after-school programs, or special education services, I can expand on those topics as well.